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BikerDoug wrote:
IIRC... one of the problems craig had when developing the bike as finding in quantity bamboo with the correct proportions he needed for each tube. Just having bamboo available wouldn't be enough. It would have to be the right kind.
Yes, you're correct. Finding quality bamboo in quantity was/is difficult. However, that is what is required for a high end bamboo frame. My thought is that proof of concept is finished. Now, why can't you make cheap bamboo bikes with much lesser quality bamboo? ...That's a rhetorical question. Remember, this is for a developing country and some family who can't afford a bike. Sure, it may not handle as well and ride as nice, but who cares!? The objective here is cheap transportation.
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Second, connecting the bamboo (lugs etc.) would still require great skill and care. I think both of these things would prevent bamboo from replacing cheap steel as the more economical material for inexpensive bikes.
Yes, again true. ...if you used CF lugs like Calfee does. Why not run of the mill fiberglass? Pre-fab lugs, heck, chewing gum and duct tape!
Have you ever been to Hong Kong? The multistory (20+ stories) apartment buildings are made with bamboo scafolding!!! Yes, the construction workers are climbing around on bamboo well over 20 stories in the air. And, how are the pieces connected? Glad you asked. They're tied with twine or some such material! One could conceivably make a bamboo frame that was tied together! ...and still be strong enough for daily use.
Yes, steel frames are cheap, but the energy needed to make steel is quite high relative to the energy needed to grow and harvest bamboo. I understand that the planet will probably never have mass produced bamboo frames, but my point is that it should be tried as step to achieve a better standard of living. Not a better standard for me and you, Hell, we have nice bikes and the internet for conversations like this. But a better standard for those without.
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95 Carbonframes Tetra Pro
92 Bridgestone MB-1
90 Moser 51.151
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